An Italian composer and educator, he's most known for his operas and orchestral works, blending German Romanticism with Italian lyricism. His music is characterized by its lyricism, humor, and dramatic flair.
Ermanno WolfFerrari, an Italian composer and teacher, is renowned for his remarkable comic operas that have entertained audiences for generations. His most notable works, such as Il segreto di Susanna (1909) and I quatro rusteghi (1906), have solidified his position as a master of the genre.
Born on January 12, 1876, in Venice, Italy, WolfFerrari was the son of German painter August Wolf and Emilia Ferrari. He added his mother's maiden name, Ferrari, to his surname in 1895. Initially, music was not his primary passion; he studied painting in Venice and Rome, later traveling to Munich to refine his skills. However, it was in Munich that he discovered his true calling – music.
WolfFerrari's musical education began with lessons from Josef Rheinberger, followed by enrollment at the Munich conservatory, where he studied counterpoint and composition. His early works, written in the 1890s, marked the beginning of his illustrious career. In 1900, his opera Cenerentola, based on the story of Cinderella, was first performed, although it was initially met with failure in Italy. Undeterred, WolfFerrari revised the opera, and it found success in Bremen in 1902.
WolfFerrari's collaboration with Carlo Goldoni, an 18th-century Venetian playwright, led to a series of revolutionary comic operas. By adapting Goldoni's witty farces, WolfFerrari created eclectic, melodic, and humorous works that captivated audiences. Notable examples include Le donne curiose (1903), I quatro rusteghi (1906), and Il campiello (1936).
WolfFerrari's contributions to the world of opera have been immense. His works have inspired generations of composers and continue to be performed worldwide. His legacy extends beyond his music, as he played a significant role in popularizing the Italian opera tradition. WolfFerrari's impact on modern society is evident in the countless adaptations and reinterpretations of his works in various art forms.
WolfFerrari married and had a son, Federico WolfFerrari, and maintained close relationships with notable figures such as Arrigo Boito and Verdi. His personal life was marked by intense dedication to his craft, with music becoming the central focus of his existence.
Ermanno WolfFerrari passed away on January 21, 1948, leaving behind a rich cultural heritage that continues to delight audiences today.
WolfFerrari's life and works serve as a testament to the power of creativity and dedication. As we continue to celebrate his legacy, we are reminded of the profound impact he has had on the world of opera and beyond.
Born in 1813
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